Sans 6252

© SABS.
This non-printable standard is exclusively for approved users of the SABS’ Complete Collection of Standards and Related Documents.
The standard must reside on an internal network or intranet and may only be used for reference purposes in compliance with SABS
copyright rules. The standard or parts thereof may not be distributed in any form without permission from the SABS.
ISBN 978-0-626-27123-7
SANS 6252:2006
Edition 1.1
Any reference to SABS SM 1252 is deemed

to be a reference to this standard
(Government Notice No. 1373 of 8 November 2002)
SOUTH AFRICAN NATIONAL STANDARD
Concrete tests — Air content of freshly mixed

concrete — Pressure method
Published by SABS Standards Division

1 Dr Lategan Road Groenkloof Private Bag X191 Pretoria 0001
Tel: +27 12 428 7911 Fax: +27 12 344 1568
www.sabs.co.za
© SABS
© SABS. This non-printable standard is exclusively for approved users of the SABS’ Complete Collection of Standards and Related Documents.
SANS 6252:2006
Edition 1.1
Table of changes
Change No. Date Scope
Amdt 1 2006 Amended to change the designation of SABS standards to SANS
standards, with no technical changes.
Acknowledgement
The SABS Standards Division wishes to acknowledge the valuable assistance derived from publications
of the following organizations:
The British Standards Institution
The International Organization for Standardization
Foreword
This South African standard was approved by National Committee SABS SC 59A, Construction
standards – Cement, lime and concrete, in accordance with procedures of the SABS Standards
Division, in compliance with annex 3 of the WTO/TBT agreement.
This standard was published in November 2006. This edition is technically identical to the first edition
(SABS SM 1252:1994).
Annex A forms an integral part of this standard.
Reaffirmed and reprinted in March 2012.

This standard will be reviewed every five years
and be reaffirmed, amended, revised or withdrawn.
SANS 6252:2006
Edition 1.1
Concrete tests — Air content of freshly mixed concrete — Pressure

method
1 Scope
This standard specifies a method of determining the air content of compacted freshly mixed concrete
from the observation of the change in volume of the air in the concrete with a change in pressure.
The method is applicable to concrete and mortars made with aggregates of normal or high density, of
nominal maximum size 40 mm.
The method is not applicable to aerated concrete, very stiff concrete that cannot be compacted by
vibration or tamping alone or to concrete made with aggregates of low density, air-cooled blast-furnace
slag, or aggregates of high porosity.
2 Normative references
The following standards contain provisions which, through reference in this text, constitute provisions of
this standard. All standards are subject to revision and, since any reference to a standard is deemed to
be a reference to the latest edition of that standard, parties to agreements based on this standard are
encouraged to take steps to ensure the use of the most recent editions of the standards indicated
below. Information on currently valid national and international standards can be obtained from the
SABS Standards Division.
SANS 5861-1, Concrete tests – Part 1: Mixing fresh concrete in the laboratory.
SANS 5861-2, Concrete tests – Part 2: Sampling of freshly mixed concrete.
SANS 5862-1, Concrete tests – Part 1: Consistence of freshly mixed concrete – Slump test.
SANS 6250, Concrete tests – Density of compacted freshly mixed concrete.
3 Definitions
For the purposes of this standard, the following definitions apply:
3.1
aerated concrete
concrete made light and cellular by the addition of a prepared foam or by the generation of gas within
the unhardened mixture
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3.2
aggregate of high density
aggregate that contains materials such as barytes, magnetite, hematite, limonite, ilmenite, iron or steel,
and that has a particle density that exceeds 3 200 kg/m³
3.3
aggregate of low density
aggregate with a particle density of less than 2 200 kg/m³ and that contains materials such as:
a) expanded or sintered clay, shale, diatomaceous shale, perlite, vermiculite or slag;
b) natural pumice, scoria, volcanic cinders, tuff or diatomite; and
c) sintered fly ash or industrial cinders
3.4
aggregate of normal density
aggregate that is neither of high density nor of low density
3.5
air-entrained concrete
concrete that has microscopic air bubbles intentionally incorporated during mixing, usually by the use of
a surface-active agent
4 Apparatus
4.1 Air meters, of the types indicated below.
NOTE Two air meters, employing the principle of Boyle-Mariottes law, are described, that for the purpose of
reference herein are designated type A and type B.
4.1.1 Type A meter, that consists of a container (see 4.2) and a cover assembly (see 4.3). (See also
figure 1.)
NOTE The operational principle consists of introducing water to a predetermined height above a sample of
concrete of known volume and the application of a predetermined air pressure over the water. The reduction in
volume of the air in the concrete sample is measured by observing the change in the water level under the applied
pressure, the pressure being calibrated in terms of the percentage of air in the concrete sample.
4.1.2 Type B meter, that consists of a container (see 4.2) and a cover assembly (see 4.3). (See also
figure 2.)
NOTE The operational principle consists of merging a known volume of air at a known pressure in a sealed
chamber with the unknown volume of air in the concrete sample, the dial on the pressure gauge being calibrated in
terms of the percentage of air for the resultant pressure. Working pressures of 50 kPa to 200 kPa have been used
satisfactorily.
4.2 Container, that consists of a flanged cylindrical steel vessel (or of any other hard metal that is not
readily attacked by cement paste), of nominal capacity 5 L and that has a ratio of diameter to height of
between 0,75 and 1,25.
NOTE For testing mortars, a container of nominal capacity 1 L may be used.
The outer rim and upper surface of the flange and the interior surfaces of the vessel are machined to a
smooth finish. The container is watertight and both the container and the cover assembly are suitable to
limit the expansion factor D of the apparatus assembly (see annex A) to not more than 0,1 % of the air
content on the indicator scale, when under normal operating pressure.
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4.3 Cover assembly, made of steel (or of any other hard metal that is not readily attacked by cement
paste), and that is essentially as follows:
4.3.1 The cover assembly is flanged or so constructed to provide for a pressure-tight fit between the
container and cover assembly. The cover assembly has smooth interior surfaces that are contoured to
provide an air space above the level of the top of the container. The cover assembly is sufficiently rigid
to limit the expansion factor of the apparatus assembly.
4.3.2 The cover assembly is fitted with a means of direct reading of the percentage air content. The
cover of the type A meter is fitted with a standpipe, which may be a graduated precision-bore glass
tube, or a metal tube of uniform bore with a glass water gauge attached to the tube. The pressure
gauge dial of the type B meter is calibrated to indicate the percentage of air. Graduations are provided
for a range of at least 8 % in the air content, as determined by the air pressure calibration test.
NOTE For a container of nominal capacity 1 L (for testing mortars), the graduations are provided for a range of at
least 20 % in the air content, as determined by the air pressure calibration test.
4.3.3 The cover assembly is fitted with a main air valve, an air bleeder valve, and two petcocks to
bleed off water or air and through which water can be introduced as necessary for the particular meter
design. Suitable means of clamping the cover to the container are provided to make a pressure-tight
seal without entrapping air at the joint between the flanges of the cover and container. A suitable hand
pump is provided with the cover assembly, either as an attachment or as an accessory.
4.4 Calibration measure, of an internal volume that is equal to a percentage of the volume of the
container, and corresponds to the approximate percentage of air in the concrete to be tested. If the
cylinder is smaller, it is possible to check calibration of the indicator of the meter at the approximate
percentage of air in the concrete to be tested, by repeated filling of the container. When the design of
the meter requires placing the calibration measure within the container in order to check calibration, the
measure should be cylindrical and of internal depth approximately 10 mm less than that of the
container. A satisfactory calibration measure can be machined from brass tubing of wall thickness that
exceeds 1,5 mm, and of the appropriate diameter to provide the volume desired, and to which a brass
disc of thickness approximately 10 mm is soldered to form an end. When the design of the meter
requires water to be withdrawn from the water-filled container and cover assembly in order to check
calibration, the calibration measure may be an integral part of the cover assembly or may be a separate
cylindrical measure similar to the measure described above.
4.5 Coil spring, or other device for holding the calibration measure in place.
4.6 Spray tube, that comprises a brass tube of appropriate diameter, which may be an integral part of
the cover assembly or which may be provided separately. It is so constructed that water is added to the
container by being so sprayed onto the walls of the cover assembly that the water flows down the sides
of the container, causing a minimum of disturbance to the concrete.
4.7 Trowel, a standard bricklayer's trowel.
4.8 Mallet, that has a rubber or rawhide head of mass approximately 250 g.
4.9 Strike-off bar, of steel or of any other suitable metal.
4.10 Funnel, the spout of which fits into the spray tube.
4.11 Water measure, of sufficient capacity to fill the indicator with water from the top of the concrete
to the zero mark.
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4.12 Means of compaction, comprising

a) a tamping rod, for hand compaction, that is made of steel, is of nominal diameter 16 mm and of
length approximately 600 mm, and that has at least one hemispherical end; or
b) a vibrating table, with a recommended minimum frequency of 50 Hz (3 000 cycles per min); or
c) an internal vibrator, with a recommended minimum frequency of 120 Hz (7 200 cycles per min). The
cross-sectional diameter of the vibrator should not exceed one-quarter of the smallest dimension of
the test specimen.
NOTE The design of various types of air meter available is such that the meters differ in operating techniques and
therefore not all of the items described in 4.5 to 4.12 may be required. The items required are those necessary for
use with the particular design of apparatus.
5 Calibration of apparatus
Perform calibration tests in accordance with the procedures described in annex A. Rough handling will
affect the calibration of meters of both type A and type B. Changes in barometric pressure will affect a
type A meter but not a type B meter. The steps described in clauses A.2 to A.6, as applicable to the
meter type being checked, are prerequisites for the final calibration test to determine the operating
pressure p on the pressure gauge of a type A meter as described in clause A.7, or to determine the
accuracy of the graduations indicating air content on the dial face of the pressure gauge of a type B
meter. Normally the steps in clauses A.2 to A.6 need to be followed only once (at the time of initial
calibration), or only occasionally to check the volume constancy of the calibration measure and
container. The calibration tests described in clauses A.7 and A.9, as applicable to the meter type being
checked, are carried out as frequently as necessary to ensure that the proper operating pressure p is
being used for a type A meter or that the correct air contents are being indicated on the pressure gauge
air content scale for a type B meter. A change in elevation of more than 200 m from the location at
which a type A meter was last calibrated will require recalibration in accordance with clause A.7.
6 Determination of aggregate correction factor

6.1 General
Determine the aggregate correction factor on a combined sample of fine and coarse aggregate, as
specified in 6.2 to 6.4. The aggregate correction factor is determined independently by applying the
calibrated pressure to a sample of inundated fine and coarse aggregate in approximately the same
moisture condition, and of the same amount and proportions occurring in the concrete sample under
test.
NOTE The aggregate correction factor will vary with different aggregates and, although it will remain reasonably
constant for a particular aggregate, an occasional check should be carried out. The aggregate correction factor can
be determined only by test, since it is not related direct to the water absorption of the particles.
6.2 Aggregate sample size

Calculate, in kilograms, the mass of fine aggregate mf and coarse aggregate mc present in the sample
of freshly mixed concrete of which the air content is to be determined, using the following formulae:
Vs l
mf = mf
Vb
Vs l
mc = mc
Vb
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Edition 1.1
where
Vs is the volume of the concrete sample (the same as the volume of the container), in cubic
metres;
Vb is the volume of concrete produced per batch, in cubic metres;
l
m f is the total mass of fine aggregate (in the moisture condition used in the batch), in kilograms;
l
mc is the total mass of coarse aggregate (in the moisture condition used in the batch), in
kilograms.
6.3 Filling the container

Fill approximately one-third of the container of the air meter with water and add the combined sample of
aggregate in small increments in such a manner as to entrap as little air as possible. If necessary, add
additional water to inundate all the aggregate. After the addition of each increment, promptly remove
any foam, stir the aggregate with the tamping rod and tap the container with the mallet to release
entrapped air.
6.4 Procedure
6.4.1 Initial procedure for meters of type A and type B
When all the aggregate has been placed in the container, remove any foam and keep the aggregate
inundated for a period of time that is approximately equal to the time between the introduction of the
water into the mixer and the time of performing the test for the air content of concrete, before
proceeding with the test as described in 6.4.2 or 6.4.3.
6.4.2 Type A meter
Carry out the test as described in 8.2.1 and 8.2.2. The aggregate correction factor G is equal to h1 − h2
(see figure 1).
6.4.3 Type B meter
Carry out the procedure described in 8.3.1. Remove a volume of water from the assembled and filled
apparatus that is approximately equivalent to the volume of air that would be contained in a typical
concrete sample of a size equal to the volume of the container. Remove the water in the manner
described in clause A.9 of annex A. Complete the test in accordance with 8.3.2. The aggregate
correction factor G is equal to the reading on the air-content scale minus the volume of the water
removed from the container, expressed as a percentage of the volume of the container.
7 Sampling
Obtain a representative composite sample of concrete (freshly mixed in accordance with SANS 5861-1)
in accordance with SANS 5861-2. Determine the air content as soon as possible after sampling and
remixing.
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8 Procedure
8.1 Placement and compaction of the concrete
8.1.1 General
NOTE Any part of the test method not specifically designated as pertaining to a meter of type A or type B applies
to both types of meter.
Place a representative sample of the concrete in equal layers in the container. Compact each layer by
tamping (see 8.1.2) or by vibration (see 8.1.3). Do not use vibration to compact concrete that has a
slump that exceeds 75 mm when determined in accordance with SANS 5862-I.
8.1.2 Tamping
Fill the container with the composite sample (see clause 7) in three layers, each of approximately the
same volume. Tamp each layer with at least 25 strokes applied with the hemispherical end of the
tamping rod, distributing the strokes uniformly over the cross-section of the layer. Tamp each layer
throughout its depth, ensuring that when the second and third layers are being tamped, the strokes
penetrate into the underlying layer. Follow the tamping of each layer by tapping the sides of the
container sharply 10 to 15 times with the mallet until any voids left by the tamping are consolidated and
no large bubbles of air appear on the tamped layer. While tamping the third layer, avoid excessive
overfilling (see 8.1.4).
8.1.3 Vibration
Fill the container with the composite sample (see clause 7) in two layers, each of approximately the
same volume. When compacting each layer by means of an internal vibrator or a vibrating table, use
applied vibration of the minimum duration necessary to achieve full compaction of the concrete. Over-
vibration can cause segregation, laitance or loss of entrained air, if present. The duration of vibration
will depend on the consistence of the concrete and on the effectiveness of the vibrator. Stop vibration
as soon as the surface of the concrete becomes relatively smooth and has a glazed appearance.
8.1.4 Strike-off
After compaction of the concrete, strike off the top surface by sliding the strike-off bar across the top
flange until the concrete surface is level with the edge of the container. Wipe the flange of the container
clean.
8.1.5 Determination of density
Determine the density of the sample in accordance with SANS 6250.
8.2 Procedure — type A meter
8.2.1 Preparation for test
Thoroughly clean the flanges or rims of the container and of the cover assembly so that, when the cover
is clamped in place, a pressure-tight seal will be obtained. Assemble the apparatus and so spray water
over the concrete by means of the spray tube that the water rises to about the halfway mark in the
standpipe. Incline the apparatus approximately 30° from the vertical and, using the bottom of the
container as a pivot, describe several complete circles with the upper end of the column, simultaneously
tapping the cover lightly with the mallet to remove any entrapped air bubbles above the concrete
sample. Return the apparatus to the vertical and fill the water column to slightly above the zero mark,
while tapping the sides of the container. Remove any foam on the surface of the water column with a
SANS 6252:2006
Edition 1.1
syringe or with a spraying of alcohol to provide a clear meniscus. Bring the water level to the zero mark
of the graduated tube before closing the vent at the top of the water column (see figure 1(a)).
8.2.2 Test procedure
Apply slightly more than the desired operating pressure p (approximately 1 500 Pa more) to the
concrete by means of the hand pump. To relieve local restraints, tap the sides of the container sharply
and, when the pressure gauge indicates the exact operating pressure p (determined in accordance with
clause A.7 of annex A), record the water level h1 to the nearest division on the graduated precision-bore
tube or gauge glass of the standpipe (see figure 1(b)). In the case of extremely harsh mixes, it may be
necessary to tap the container vigorously until tapping no longer produces any change in the indicated
air content. Gradually release the air pressure through the vent at the top of the water column and tap
the sides of the container lightly for approximately 1 min. Record the water level h2 to the nearest
graduation (see figure 1(c)). The apparent air content A1 is equal to h1 − h2.
8.2.3 Check test
Repeat the steps described in 8.2.2, but without adding water to re-establish the water level at the zero
mark. Two consecutive determinations of the apparent air content should check within 0,2 % of air and
is averaged to the nearest 0,1 % to give the value of A1 to be used in calculating the air content of the
concrete in the container Ac in accordance with clause 9.
8.2.4 Test pressure
If the air content exceeds the range of the meter when it is operated at the normal operating pressure p,
reduce the operating pressure to the alternative operating pressure p1 and repeat 8.2.2 and 8.2.3.
NOTE See clause A.7 of annex A for exact calibration procedures. An approximate value for the alternative
pressure p1, in kilopascals, such that the apparent air content will be equal to twice the meter reading, can be
calculated, using the formula
pn × p
p1 =
2 pn + p
where
pn is the atmospheric pressure (approximately 100 kPa, but will vary with altitude and weather conditions);
p is the normal test or operating pressure, in kilopascals.
8.3 Procedure — type B meter
8.3.1 Preparation for test
Thoroughly clean the flanges or rims of the container and of the cover assembly so that, when the cover
is clamped in place, a pressure-tight seal will be obtained. Assemble the apparatus. Close the main air
valve between the air chamber and the container and open petcocks A and B (on the holes through the
cover). Use a rubber syringe to inject water through petcock A until water emerges from petcock B. Jar
the meter gently until all air is expelled from petcock B.
SANS 6252:2006
Edition 1.1
8.3.2 Test procedure
Close the air bleeder valve on the air chamber and pump air into the air chamber until the gauge hand
is on the initial pressure line. Allow a few seconds for the compressed air to cool to normal temperature.
Stabilize the gauge hand at the initial pressure line by pumping in, or bleeding off, air as necessary,
lightly tapping the gauge. Close both petcocks on the holes through the cover. Open the main air valve
between the air chamber and the container. Tap the sides of the container sharply to relieve local
restraints. Lightly tap the pressure gauge hand and read off the percentage of air on the pressure
gauge dial. Release the pressure by opening both petcocks before removing the cover.
NOTE The main air valve should be closed before pressure is released from either the container or the air
chamber. Failure to do so will result in water being drawn into the air chamber, thus introducing an error in
subsequent measurements. If water enters the air chamber, it must be bled off through the bleeder valve, followed
by several strokes of the pump to blow out the last traces of water.
9 Calculations and expression of results

9.1 Air content of the sample tested
Calculate the air content of the concrete in the container Ac as a percentage, using the formula
Ac = A 1 − G
where
A1 is the apparent air content of the sample tested, to the nearest 0,1 %;
G is the aggregate correction factor, to the nearest 0,1 %.
Express the results to the nearest 0,1 %.
9.2 Air content of the mortar fraction

If required, calculate the air content of the mortar fraction of the concrete Am as a percentage, using the
formula
100 Ac Vc
Am =
100 Vm + Ac (Vc − Vm )
where
Ac is the air content of the concrete, as a percentage;
Vc is the absolute volume of the ingredients of the concrete, air-free, as determined from the
original batch mass, in cubic metres;
Vm is the absolute volume of the ingredients of the mortar fraction (i.e. cement, water and fine
aggregate) of the concrete, air-free, as determined from the original batch mass, in cubic
metres.
Express the results to the nearest 0,1 % for up to 1 %, to the nearest 0,5 % for up to 5 %, and to the
nearest 1 % for over 5 % of air content.
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10 Test report
Refer to this test method in the report and include the following information:
a) identification of the sample;
b) the date of the test;
c) the type of meter used (type A or type B);
d) the measured air content of the sample tested; and
e) the density of the sample.
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NOTE A1 = h1 − h2 when the container holds concrete as shown in this figure: when the container holds only
aggregate and water h1 − h2 = G (aggregate correction factor). A1 − G = Ac (air content of concrete).
Figure 1 — Type A meter
Figure 2 — Type B meter
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Annex A
(normative)
Calibration of apparatus
A.1 General
Carry out calibration tests in accordance with the following procedures, as applicable to the type of
meter being used.
A.2 Capacity of the calibration measure

For all meters, determine the mass of water mc required to fill the calibration measure, using a scale
accurate to 0,1 % of the mass of the measure filled with water.
A.3 Capacity of the container

For all meters, determine the mass of water m1 required to fill the container, using a scale accurate to
0,1 % of the mass of the container filled with water. Carefully slide a glass plate over the flange of the
container in such a manner as to ensure that the container is completely filled with water. A thin film of
grease smeared on the flange of the container will provide a watertight joint between the glass plate
and the top of the container.
A.4 Effective volume of the calibration cylinder

The constant R represents the effective volume of the calibration measure, expressed as a percentage
of the volume of the container.
A.4.1 For type A meters, R can be calculated using the formula
mo
R = 0,98
m1
where
mo is the mass of water required to fill the calibration measure, in kilograms;
m1 is the mass of water required to fill the container, in kilograms.
NOTE A factor of 0,98 is used to correct for the reduction in the volume of air in the calibration measure when it is
compressed by a depth of water equal to the depth of the container. This factor is approximately 0,98 for a
container of depth 200 mm at sea level. Its value decreases to approximately 0,975 at 1 500 m above sea level and
to approximately 0,970 at 4 000 m above sea level. The value of this constant will decrease by approximately 0,01
for each 100 mm increase in container depth. The depth of the container and atmospheric pressure do not affect
the effective column of the calibration measure for type B meters.
A.4.2 For type B meters, R can be calculated using the formula (see note to A.4.1)
mo
R=
m1
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A.5 Pressure expansion factor D

A.5.1 For type A meters, determine the expansion factor D (see note 1) by filling the apparatus with
water, ensuring that all entrapped air has been removed and that the water level is exactly on the zero
mark (see note 2). Apply an air pressure that is approximately equal to the operating pressure p
determined in accordance with clause A.7. The reading of the water column (in percentage of air
content) will be the expansion factor D for that particular apparatus and pressure (see note 3).
NOTES
1 Although the container, cover and clamping mechanism of the apparatus are, of necessity, so constructed as to
be pressure-tight, the application of internal pressure will result in a small increase in volume. The expansion factor
will not affect the test results, since, with the procedures described in clauses 6 and 8, the expansion is the same
for the test for air in concrete as for the test for the aggregate correction factor on combined fine and coarse
aggregate, and is therefore automatically cancelled. However, the expansion factor does affect the calibration test
to determine the air pressure to be used in testing the concrete.
2 The water columns on some type A meters are marked with an initial water level and a zero mark, the difference
between the two marks being the allowance for the expansion factor. The allowance should be checked in the
same manner as for meters not so marked, and in such cases, the expansion factor should be omitted when the
calibration reading (see clause A.6) is being calculated.
3 It will be sufficiently accurate for this test to use an approximate value for p (determined by carrying out a
preliminary calibration test as described in clause A.7), except that an approximate value for the calibration factor K
should be used. For this test K = 0,98 R.
A.5.2 For type B meters, the allowance for the expansion factor D is included in the difference
between the initial pressure indicated on the pressure gauge and the zero mark on the air content scale
on the pressure gauge. The allowance for the expansion factor is checked by filling the apparatus with
water (ensure that all entrapped air has been removed), pumping air into the air chamber until the
gauge hand is stabilized at the indicated initial pressure line, and then releasing the air to the container.
If the initial pressure line is correctly positioned, the gauge should read 0 %. If two or more
determinations show the same variation from 0 %, adjust the initial pressure line and repeat the test to
check the initial pressure line.
NOTE This procedure may be carried out in conjunction with the calibration test described in clause A.9.
A.6 Calibration reading K

The calibration reading K is the final meter reading to be obtained when the meter is operated at the
correct calibration pressure.
A.6.1 For type A meters, the calibration reading K can be calculated using the formula
K=R+D
where
R is the effective volume of the calibration measure;
D is the expansion factor (see clause A.5 and the note in A.6.2).
NOTE If the water column indicator is graduated to include an initial water level and a zero mark, the difference
between the two marks being equivalent to the expansion factor, the expansion factor D is omitted.
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A.6.2 For type B meters, the calibration reading K equals the effective volume of the calibration
measure as follows:
K=R
A.7 Required operating pressure — type A meter

If the calibration measure contains no recesses or projections, fit three or more equidistant spacers
around the circumference of the measure. Place the calibration measure, with spacers, centrally on the
bottom of the clean container, with the open end downwards. The spacers will provide an opening for
the flow of water into the calibration measure when pressure is applied. Place the coil spring on the
measure and clamp the cover assembly carefully in place.
Fill the apparatus with water at ambient temperature to a level above the zero mark on the air content
scale. Close the air vent and pump air into the apparatus to approximately the operating pressure.
Lightly tap the sides and cover with the mallet to remove as much entrapped air as possible that
adheres to the interior surfaces of the apparatus. Gradually reduce the pressure by opening the vent.
Bring the water level exactly to the zero mark by bleeding off water through the petcock into the conical
cover and close the air vent. Use the air pump to apply pressure until the reading of the water level
equals the calibration reading K (see A.6.1). Record the operating pressure p to the nearest kilopascal.
If the water level fails to return to a reading of less than 0,05 % of the air content, check the apparatus
for leakage and repeat the procedure.
A.8 Alternative operating pressure — type A meter

The range of air content that can be measured with a particular apparatus can be extended by deter-
mining an appropriate alternative operating pressure (e.g. if the range is to be doubled, the alternative
operating pressure p1 is that for which the apparatus indicated half the calibration reading K). Exact
calibration will require the determination of the expansion factor D at the reduced pressure given in
clause A.5. For most purposes, the change in expansion factor can be disregarded and the alternative
operating pressure can be determined during the determination of the normal operating pressure (see
clause A.7).
A.9 Checking air content graduations on the pressure gauge —

type B meter
Fill the container with water (see clause A.3). Screw the extension tubing into the threaded petcock
hole A (see figure 2) on the underside of the cover assembly. Assemble the apparatus. Close the main
air valve and open petcocks A and B. Add water through petcock A until all trapped air has been
expelled through petcock B. Close petcock B. Pump air into the air chamber until the pressure reaches
the indicated initial pressure line. Allow a few seconds for the compressed air to cool to normal
temperature. Stabilize the gauge hand at the initial pressure line by pumping in, or bleeding off, air as
necessary, lightly tapping the gauge. Depending on the particular meter design, remove water from the
assembly to the calibration measure controlling the flow, by either opening petcock A and cracking the
air valve between the air chamber and the container, or opening the air valve and using petcock A to
control the flow. Remove a sufficient quantity of water to fill the calibration measure completely or to
predetermined lines marked on the measure. Release the air from the apparatus at petcock B and, if
the apparatus has an auxiliary tube for filling the calibration measure, open petcock A to drain the
contents of the tube back into the container (see note). At this point, the container contains the
percentage of air determined by the calibration test of the calibration measure. Pump air into the air
chamber until the pressure reaches the pressure line marked on the pressure gauge, close petcocks A
and B and then open the main valve as before. The indicated air content on the pressure gauge dial
should correspond to the percentage of air determined to be in the container. If two or more
determinations show the same variation from the correct air content, the dial hand is reset to the correct
13
SANS 6252:2006
Edition 1.1
air content and the test is repeated until the gauge reading responds to the calibration air content to
within 0,1 %.
NOTE If the calibrating measure is an integral part of the cover assembly, the petcock used in filling the measure
should be closed immediately after filling the calibration measure and should not be opened until the test is
complete.
© SABS
14
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Any reference to SABS SM 1252 is deemed

SOUTH AFRICAN NATIONAL STANDARD

Concrete tests — Air content of freshly mixed

Published by SABS Standards Division

The British Standards Institution

The International Organization for Standardization

Annex A forms an integral part of this standard.

Reaffirmed and reprinted in March 2012.

Concrete tests — Air content of freshly mixed concrete — Pressure

SANS 5861-2, Concrete tests – Part 2: Sampling of freshly mixed concrete.

SANS 6250, Concrete tests – Density of compacted freshly mixed concrete.

a) expanded or sintered clay, shale, diatomaceous shale, perlite, vermiculite or slag;

b) natural pumice, scoria, volcanic cinders, tuff or diatomite; and

c) sintered fly ash or industrial cinders

NOTE For testing mortars, a container of nominal capacity 1 L may be used.

4.7 Trowel, a standard bricklayer's trowel.

4.9 Strike-off bar, of steel or of any other suitable metal.

4.12 Means of compaction, comprising

6 Determination of aggregate correction factor

6.2 Aggregate sample size

Vb is the volume of concrete produced per batch, in cubic metres;

6.3 Filling the container

6.4.1 Initial procedure for meters of type A and type B

6.4.2 Type A meter

6.4.3 Type B meter

8.1.5 Determination of density

Determine the density of the sample in accordance with SANS 6250.

8.2 Procedure — type A meter

8.2.1 Preparation for test

8.2.2 Test procedure

8.2.3 Check test

8.2.4 Test pressure

p is the normal test or operating pressure, in kilopascals.

8.3 Procedure — type B meter

8.3.1 Preparation for test

8.3.2 Test procedure

9 Calculations and expression of results

G is the aggregate correction factor, to the nearest 0,1 %.

Express the results to the nearest 0,1 %.

9.2 Air content of the mortar fraction

Ac is the air content of the concrete, as a percentage;

a) identification of the sample;

b) the date of the test;

c) the type of meter used (type A or type B);

d) the measured air content of the sample tested; and

e) the density of the sample.

Figure 1 — Type A meter

Figure 2 — Type B meter

A.2 Capacity of the calibration measure

A.3 Capacity of the container

A.4 Effective volume of the calibration cylinder

A.4.1 For type A meters, R can be calculated using the formula

mo is the mass of water required to fill the calibration measure, in kilograms;

m1 is the mass of water required to fill the container, in kilograms.

A.5 Pressure expansion factor D

A.6 Calibration reading K

R is the effective volume of the calibration measure;

A.7 Required operating pressure — type A meter

A.8 Alternative operating pressure — type A meter

A.9 Checking air content graduations on the pressure gauge —

SABS – Standards Division

Amendments and Revisions